Blog Archives

The People That Keep Communities Safe

Barbara Gammage Author Interview

The Dreamlighters Put Out a Fire follows a group of kids who dream of being first responders and with the help of a magical Dreamlight Genie, they are transported into a fire station, where they learn about different roles, from dispatchers to paramedics to firefighters.

What educational aspects were important for you to include in this children’s book?

This book introduces children to the different roles within a fire department, beyond just firefighters. It highlights dispatchers, paramedics, and other essential team members who work together to keep communities safe. Through an engaging story, young readers learn about emergency response, fire safety, teamwork, and the importance of communication in high-pressure situations. We also included a glossary and a fun career navigation activity to reinforce learning in an interactive way.

The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Ishika Sharma?

It was incredible to see our ideas come to life—not just once, but twice. We would sketch out our vision, and Ishika would transform it into a vibrant, living masterpiece.

Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?

No, this is actually the second book in The Little Careers Universe, but it offers a fresh perspective. This time, I took on the role of author, incorporating my own life experiences into the story.

Kaleb and Maya are talking about putting out a fire with their friends, William and Elizabeth, when their Dreamlight Genie suddenly appears! While he takes them on a quest through the fire station, the children learn that the fire plan must first be mapped out! As things heat up, will the Dreamlighters be the first in and the last out?

The Dreamlighters Put Out a Fire

Barbara Gammage’s Put Out a Fire is an exciting and heartwarming children’s book that takes young readers on an adventure into the world of firefighters. It follows a group of kids, Kaleb, William, Maya, and Elizabeth, who dream of being first responders. With the help of Jazz, a magical Dreamlight Genie, they are transported into a fire station, where they learn about different roles, from dispatchers to paramedics to firefighters. The book mixes education with adventure, giving kids a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to put out a fire.

The way Gammage blends real-world firefighting knowledge with a fun, magical adventure is just perfect for kids. One of my favorite parts was when Maya and Elizabeth got to act as dispatchers, answering an emergency call from a woman whose kitchen was on fire. It was such a smart way to show kids how important these roles are—saving lives isn’t just about charging into a burning building! Then there’s William, who just wanted to see the trucks, and I could totally relate to his impatience. Gammage really gets how kids think, and it makes the story even more fun to read.

Another thing I loved was the firefighting scene. The sirens blaring, the team gearing up, the strategic way they fought the fire—it was all so well done. Kaleb and William manning the hoses while Maya and Elizabeth worked with the ambulance crew felt like a real team effort. And Jazz, the genie, was the perfect guide—funny, knowledgeable, and always ready to teach something new. Plus, the book sneaks in fire safety tips without making it feel like a lesson. Kids won’t just enjoy the story, they’ll walk away actually knowing something useful.

Put Out a Fire is a fantastic picture book for kids who love action, adventure, and learning about real-world heroes. It’s perfect for kids who are curious about firefighters, dream of being first responders, or just love a good, fast-paced story. The writing is engaging, the characters are relatable, and the wonderful illustrations bring it all to life.

Pages: 60 | ASIN : B0DX5RZT6Z

Buy Now From Amazon